Life is precious and it’s only natural for most of us to want to make the most of it. While there is no magic potion to keep us young forever, there is a hormone that has been found to have the potential to extend one’s lifespan.

Hormones play a crucial role in the functioning of the human body, and while some are more well-known than others, there is one hormone that has come to the forefront of aging-related studies – human growth hormone (HGH).

What is Human Growth Hormone (HGH)?

HGH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, a small gland situated near the base of the brain.

The hormone is secreted throughout one’s life and is responsible for promoting growth and development of tissues and bones in children and adolescents. The hormone also helps regulate body composition, body fluids, muscle, and bone growth in adults. Furthermore, HGH plays a crucial role in metabolism – the process of converting food into energy.

What Happens When HGH Levels Decline?

HGH levels naturally decline with age, starting at around age 30. This decline is gradual and varies from person to person. The decrease in HGH levels results in various physical changes, such as a decrease in lean muscle mass and bone density.

Other changes that may arise from the decline in HGH levels include weight gain, reduced sex drive, and decreased energy levels. There are numerous claims that supplementing HGH can reverse these physical changes. However, HGH supplements are not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for anti-aging purposes, and their use can be harmful.

The Role of HGH in Lifespan Extension

Despite the uncertain effectiveness of HGH supplements, there is on-going research into the effects of naturally increasing HGH levels and its relation to lifespan. In a study conducted in 1990, Dr.

Rudman and colleagues discovered that increasing the HGH levels in 12 men over the age of 60 for six months resulted in an increase in lean body mass, decrease in body fat, and even noticeable signs of a reversal in the aging process.

Since then, other studies have been conducted, and the results have been mixed. Some studies have shown an increase in longevity with HGH therapy, while others have not.

Nevertheless, numerous studies have demonstrated that increasing HGH levels in animals result in life extension. For example, in a study conducted at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, mice treated to increase their HGH levels lived 50% longer than untreated mice.

How to Naturally Increase HGH Levels

In the past, the only way to increase HGH levels was through injections that required a doctor’s prescription. These days, many natural methods have been found to stimulate the pituitary gland to produce more HGH.

Here are a few ways to naturally increase HGH levels:.

Exercise Regularly

Exercise, especially strength training, can stimulate the production of HGH. Studies have shown that HGH levels can increase up to 300% after intense exercise, such as heavy lifting or high-intensity intervals.

Get Enough Sleep

The body naturally produces HGH while sleeping. According to studies, most HGH is produced during the first two hours of sleep. Therefore, it’s essential to get enough sleep to maximize HGH production.

Eat HGH-Boosting Foods

Some foods have been found to stimulate the body to produce more HGH. These foods include lean proteins, such as chicken and fish, and complex carbohydrates, such as brown rice and oatmeal.

Reduce Sugar Intake

Sugar consumption has been found to reduce HGH production in the body. Sugary drinks, candy, and desserts should be minimized to keep HGH levels up.

Conclusion

HGH is a hormone that plays a vital role in growth, development, and metabolism. While HGH levels naturally decline with age, there are a few ways to increase HGH levels naturally.

While studies on increasing HGH levels and lifespan extension are ongoing, natural methods to increase HGH levels, such as regular exercise and adequate sleep, can lead to better health and a better quality of life.